Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — From the streets of Prague to community halls in Madrid, dedicated individuals of the Church of Scientology are continuing a enduring tradition: supporting their communities through compassionate initiatives that aim to reaffirm dignity, compassion, and moral values. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that real spiritual advancement cannot be achieved except through meaningful contributions to the betterment of one’s fellow human beings.
Over the past several weeks, Scientologists and their partner organizations have carried out numerous public service and awareness efforts throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers hosted over 40 community initiatives in October 2025, ranging from neighborhood clean-ups, crisis response drills, and youth workshops on ethics and cooperation. Parallel activities unfolded in Spain, Italy, Hungary, and France, all conducted under the Church’s broader humanitarian umbrella.
Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.
Unlike many religious or social movements that separate faith from service, Scientology positions serving the community at the center of spiritual development. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve others,” a principle that underpins the Church’s outreach initiatives. From the worldwide Volunteer Ministers program to public education efforts on human rights, anti-drug education, and literacy, each action demonstrates the idea that helping people is an integral component toward one’s own personal liberation.
Across Europe, this philosophy has been put into action through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a universal moral framework written by Hubbard in 1981 that has been distributed to millions in more than 100 languages — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which empowers students to learn about and advocate for the internationally recognized human rights standards. These programs, while entirely secular in participation, exemplify the Scientology view that strengthening the ethical foundation of communities is essential for individuals to grow in awareness and freedom.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Rome, Brussels, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become recognized contributors in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to respond to social challenges such as substance abuse, urban neglect, and intolerance. Their work supports the European Union’s emphasis on civic participation and ethical education.
“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a foundation of a peaceful and inclusive society,” said Ivan Arjona-Pelado, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the Council of Europe, OSCE, UN, and EU. “When individuals choose to care for their communities, they also begin to grasp their own spiritual nature. This is the essence of what Scientologists mean by freedom — not only personal liberation, but a commitment to the well-being of all.”
Volunteer Ministers: A Movement of Practical Help.
One of the most recognizable expressions of this ethos is the Volunteer Ministers (VMs) program, established in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their yellow shirts, VMs operate in over 200 nations, offering support in times of crisis — from natural disasters to daily personal struggles.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been provided support during flood response in Slovenia, Hungary’s refugee support programs, rebuilding efforts after seismic events in Southern Europe, and ongoing neighborhood initiatives across the continent. Their training — open to anyone regardless of belief — focuses on practical tools to reduce tension, foster clearer dialogue, and restore self-confidence.
These actions are not driven by proselytism but by the understanding that people, when empowered with understanding and compassion, can overcome despair and reclaim their independence. This is why the program’s motto, “Something can be done about it,” has resonated across languages and cultures.
Education and Prevention as Keys to Social Change.
In addition to direct assistance, Scientologists have focused significantly on education as a proactive solution. The “Truth About Drugs” campaign — led by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — has reached millions through printed and digital resources and partnered on prevention workshops in cooperation with schools, local authorities, and student associations. Similarly, Youth for Human Rights chapters throughout Europe have run workshops in schools, teaching that human worth is inherent and universal.
Each of these programs is supported by Scientologists but implemented in partnership with secular institutions, demonstrating how spiritual conviction can translate into tangible civic contribution. This cooperative spirit has earned acknowledgment from community leaders, school officials, and nonprofit organizations for its ongoing commitment to positive change.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, acts of compassion is not distinct from their religious practice — it is the very way that spiritual awareness deepens. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving higher states of consciousness through both self-directed learning and altruistic conduct. Supporting those around you thus becomes an inseparable aspect of advancing toward what Scientology calls “complete spiritual liberation.”
“Europe has a deep humanist tradition that honors compassion and community support,” added Arjona. “Scientologists contribute to this tradition by using news euro 24 spiritual understanding to address real-world needs — {bringing help, hope, and understanding wherever they can|offering practical aid and moral clarity in their communities|sharing tools for a better life